CN1926512A - Method, system, and computer program product for automatically managing components within a controlled environment - Google Patents
Method, system, and computer program product for automatically managing components within a controlled environment Download PDFInfo
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- CN1926512A CN1926512A CN200480041062.1A CN200480041062A CN1926512A CN 1926512 A CN1926512 A CN 1926512A CN 200480041062 A CN200480041062 A CN 200480041062A CN 1926512 A CN1926512 A CN 1926512A
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Abstract
A control server (122), or similar central processor, manages the distribution of data (including audio and video), voice, and control signals among a plurality of system components (102-122) (such as, televisions, monitors, PDAs, portable stereo, lighting, ovens, alarm clocks, etc.) connected via a wired and/or wireless communications network (180). A portable controller (108) allows a user to access and control the system components from any location within a controlled residential and/or non-residential environment (100), including its surrounding areas. One or more control macros (e.g., 400) can be established to control the operations and/or functions of the system components. A control macro includes commands for enabling the control server to control the system components. The control macro can be manually activated by a user (503), or automatically executed upon the occurrence of a commencement parameter (703). The control macro can also be automatically particularized for application in a specific context.
Description
Technical field
The present invention relates generally to a kind of method of controlling consumer electronic devices, relate in particular to a kind of method by instruction manipulation sequence control consumer electronic devices, described sequence of instructions action column (i) can be defined as at special time and/or when particular event takes place and automatically perform, or (ii) can specialize for using automatically in specific context.
Background technology
For computer process ability, new and stem-winding opportunity have been showed in the appearance of information age.Personal computer has been deployed in various places, to increase efficient, reduces cost, and increases throughput rate.Miniaturization and portability have made personal computer be more prone to obtain, and become more valuable instrument in many business environments.In non-commercial context, comprise educational institution and family, personal computer also becomes very useful instrument.
The home computer network becomes and becomes more and more popular.In one family, many personal computers can link together with permission user shared file, and need not manually take disk to another room from a room.Computer network also allows user's printer sharing, facsimile recorder and miscellaneous equipment.Also can provide internet access facility to allow to insert external network and service.Therefore, the user can operate home computer to obtain the visit from all over the world information.
Although increased the appearance of home computer network, there are several major issues to overcome.For example, it is consuming time that home network is installed, and configuration also is expensive.In addition, there is not a kind of easy method can integrated home computer network and other residential equipment, such as, televisor machine, stereophonic sound system, DVD player and other household electronic equipment.Difference and communication standard that develop and/form make effective distribution personal computer and other AV equipment (such as, televisor machine, DVD player, PVR etc.) between digital audio/video (AV) data become complicated.
Another significant challenge is effectively to control the residential equipment of networking.Although can train remote control unit (for example to the assembly in recreation center, televisor machine, stereophonic sound system and VCR) transmit, however there is not known central equipment can communicate by letter and control many personal computers and other simulation and/or digital device in the dwelling house.In addition, do not have known device to communicate by letter and to control a plurality of residential equipments and do not need the user to interfere.Even the use remote control unit, the user must manually activate a hardkey to send instruction (with the form of infrared signal) to controlled CE equipment.
Although improved computer process ability and the combination of the global access of information caused the major progress in information processing epoch, still there are needs to a kind of simple, cheap, general-purpose system, the described system function of a plurality of residential equipments of home network that can be integrated and connected, and use minimum user to interfere to make the operation of these equipment become easier.
Summary of the invention
The a plurality of equipment in a kind of managing controlled environment and/or method, system and the computer program of application are provided, described controlled environment for example, family, shop, school etc., with and the peripheral region.Control center comprises one or more servers or other data processing equipment, and can centralization equipment and/instruction and the control of using.
In an embodiment of the present invention, portable controller (such as personal digital assistant, wireless notebook etc.) can make user and control center's reciprocation.Described reciprocation comprises configuration and the performance that changes miscellaneous equipment and/or application.Therefore, portable controller provides the remote access to miscellaneous equipment and/or application, and can make their function of any position control and/or the operation of user from environment.
In one embodiment, portable controller is a hand-held platform with graphic alphanumeric display, it has the wireless connectivity to control center, and described control center is by miscellaneous equipment and/or application in wireless network (for example by concrete regulations such as ieee standard 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g) the control controlled environment.In another embodiment, control center is built in the portable controller.In another embodiment, portable controller passes through infrared (IR) coded signal direct and miscellaneous equipment and/or application communication.
In one embodiment, can set up one or more controls grand operation and/or function with Control System Component.Control the grand one group of instruction set that comprises, when carrying out described instruction, can make a plurality of operations and/or the function of control center's Control System Component.Controlling grand (being instruction set) can be related with the control macro document name of calling and carrying out in the future.
By the user interface of operating portable controller, another computer client or communicating by letter with control center, it is grand that the user can define control.In one embodiment, grand being stored in the portable controller of control.When the user activates control when grand, portable controller sends request to control center, described control center send successively the command signal sequence with carry out essential function produce expected result (such as, turn on DVD player and begin the DVD playing back film) with related televisor machine and indication DVD player.
In another embodiment, seldom or do not have the user to interfere, it is grand automatically to carry out control.Grand by the sequence-activated control of instruction manipulation, described instruction manipulation sequence can be defined as when the beginning parameter takes place and automatically perform, or can specialize for using automatically in specific context.The beginning parameter can be preset time, date, state, incident or other, or its any combination.
Description of drawings
The accompanying drawing with forming an instructions part in this merging illustrates the present invention, further is suitable for explaining principle of the present invention and makes the those of skill in the art in the association area can obtain and use the present invention with instructions.In the accompanying drawings, usually the same reference numbers indication same or function on or similar element on the structure.In addition, the leftmost digital accompanying drawing of indicating reference number to occur first of common reference number.
Fig. 1 illustrates a controlled system according to the embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 2 illustrate according to the embodiment of the invention follow the tracks of and/the supervisory system assembly.
Fig. 3 illustrates according to embodiment of the invention response customer location instruction and/or Control System Component.
Fig. 4 illustrates according to embodiment of the invention definition control grand in to monitor the film record.
Fig. 5 illustrates according to the control of embodiment of the invention activation graph 4 grand.
Fig. 6 illustrates that can to carry out control automatically according to embodiment of the invention definition grand.
Fig. 7 illustrates and controls grand according to can carrying out automatically of embodiment of the invention activation graph 6.
Fig. 8 illustrates according to embodiment of the invention definition grand based on contextual control.
Fig. 9 illustrates according to grand based on contextual control in the embodiment of the invention activation graph 8.
Figure 10 illustrates according to the embodiment of the invention and is used to dispose the grand user interface of time-based control.
Figure 11 illustrates according to the embodiment of the invention and is used to dispose the controllable system assembly to carry out the grand user interface of time-based control.
Figure 12 illustrates to be used to dispose according to the embodiment of the invention and is subordinate to the controllable system assembly to carry out the grand user interface of time-based control.
Figure 13 is used to realize example computer system of the present invention.
Embodiment
Contents list
The I system survey
II. location learning
III. dispose the individualized portable controller that uses
IV. example system realizes
The I system survey
The present invention is intended to the concentrated instruction and the control of interior a plurality of equipment of controlled environment and/or application, described controlled environment such as dwelling house, shop, school etc.The dwelling house controlled environment comprises the scope of family, apartment, movable dwellings or other housing type.Yet in an embodiment, residential environment comprises the peripheral region in dwelling, and any shelter in specifying girth, building, facility etc.
In other embodiments, also can in non-residential environment, realize the present invention.Non-residential environment includes but not limited to, office's inner room, one group of small office, workshop, warehouse, public place of entertainment, school or university, health care facility, hotel, holiday resort, aircraft, steamer, automobile etc.In one embodiment, the controlled environment of non-dwelling house embodiment comprises that not only the border of aforementioned buildings is also included within the environment of specifying in the girth.
The embodiment of controlled environment has been described in following application, title is " Method; System; and Computer Program Product for Managing ControlledResidential or Non-Residential Environments " (Application No. 10/382,897) application, with title be " Method; System; and ComputerProgram Produce for Managing Controlled Residential orNon-Residential Environments; " (Application No. 10/180,500) application, two applications are equal at this fully illustrates so that it is all merged reference.As in these applications, describing, can provide the whole bag of tricks and system with information (comprising video, audio frequency, voice, text, figure, the control messages etc.) distribution of management to miscellaneous equipment in the controlled environment and/or application.Such equipment and/or application include but not limited to, communication facilities (such as, phone, intercom etc.), entertainment systems (such as, the televisor machine, the CD/DVD player, game applications, stereophonic sound system etc.), supervisory system (such as, security cameras, small sized monitor etc.), (for example fire alarm of insurance/security system, sprinkler system, lock door or window etc.), PC is (such as desktop computer, notebook, notebook computer, personal digital assistant etc.), kitchen tools are (such as baking box, coffee pot, electronic food/beverage heating arrangement), indoor water-heating system is (such as heating and air-conditioning (HVAC), humidifier, dehumidifier, air purifier, light switch, illumination dimmer etc.), supply socket, power supply etc.
An example of this controlled environment is shown in Figure 1, and it shows a dwelling house controlled system 100 according to the embodiment of the invention.System 100 comprises the communication network 180 of a plurality of system components that interconnect.System component comprises a positioning unit 102, two televisors (being depicted as 104 (a) and 104 (b)), two computer client 106 (being depicted as computer client 106 (a) and computer client 106 (b)), the self-operated thermostatic controller 112 of one or more portable controllers 108, light fixture 110, HVAC system, tuner 114, media player 116, cable box 118, DSS box 120 and one or more central server 122.Miscellaneous equipment and/or application also can be used as system component and are included in wherein.
Positioning unit 102 is specified the locus of premises, and described dwelling house serves as the concentrated environment of system 100.Positioning unit 102 is coupled to other system component (for example portable controller 108) by wired and/or wave point.Positioning unit 102 is operable as the floor or the room of specifying premises.Same positioning unit 102 is operable as particular location or the zone in designated floor or the room.And positioning unit 102 can be positioned at the outside of dwelling house, thereby specifies the perimeter of dwelling house.
Computer client 106 comprises wired and/or the radio individual computing machine, PDA(Personal Digital Assistant), enhanced telephony, personal TV machine or be linked to other data processing equipment of communication network 180.As personal computer, computer client 106 can be desktop computer, notebook, notebook computer etc.Display-coupled to computer client 106 text or graphical user interface (GUI) to be provided and to make the user and server 122 interactive communications.The input equipment of computer client 106 comprises the peripheral cell of keyboard, mouse, oral account instruction interface, mouse wheel, operating rod, rudder plate, touch-screen, microphone, operating rod, stylus, light pen or any other type.
Portable controller 108 is wired and/or the wireless data treatment facility, can make user's reciprocation between other system component, transmit control message, and/or management information (comprising audio frequency, video, voice and other data) distribution.Portable controller 108 can be the portable version of the equipment listed as computer client 106.For example, portable controller 108 can be that the equipment of communication network 180 is received in individual notebook or notebook computer, PDA, enhanced telephony or other link, and comprises the display that possesses with the mutual ability of other system component.Therefore, portable controller 108 makes the operation of the various assemblies that the user can telechirics 100.In one embodiment, the display of portable controller 108 can be from other system component receiver, video and/or audio frequency.In one embodiment, portable controller 108 comprises a flash rom of can wireless downloading and/or uploading.
Televisor 104 is conventional television.In one embodiment, strengthen televisor 104 to support interactively and/or individual service.Individual service comprises virtual record, program design, time-out/rewinding live broadcast or the like.For example, televisor 104 can be that the personal TV machine of an enhancing is served to support MSN TV, and the host is in WebTV Networks, and (MountainView CA), supports (Redmond, available WEBTV service WA) from Microsoft to Inc..As shown, televisor 104 is connected to cable set top box 118, DSS set top box 120, and/or media player 116 (as PVR, VCR or DVD player).
All communications between one or more server 122 other system components of administration.Message exchange between the system component is routed or otherwise passes through server 122 Be Controlled.Same, server 122 interacts with other system component, directly or indirectly the control messages on distributing data (comprising audio frequency and/or video), voice and/or the communication network 180.In one embodiment, server 122 instruction and control the operation and/or the function of one or more other system components.The function of server 122 management comprises Video service, audio service, phone, message, file-sharing, internet access and safety.According to embodiments of the invention, the user operate that portable controller 108 is set up or these functions of reconstruct and/or from server 122 or other system component (directly from other system component or by server 122 indirectly from system component) receiving media.
In one embodiment, portable controller 108 comprises several functions of server 122, and is as the described herein, manages information (comprising audio frequency, video, voice and other data) distribution between other system component.In another embodiment, communication network 180 is supported equity (peer to peer) communication.Equally, system component directly exchanges video, audio frequency, voice, other data and/or control messages each other, does not need to be subjected to the centre management of server 122.
Above-mentioned system component is not planned to be described in detail.Miscellaneous equipment (comprising utensil), application and/or homologue can be realized, include but not limited to, and refrigerator, stove, micro-wave oven, baking box, coffee machine, alarm clock, humidifier, Automatic Sprinkle System, light fixture, light modulator, or the like.In one embodiment, the operation and/or the function of server 122 and/or portable controller 108 these assemblies of control for example, ON/OFF, timer, modulation (for example, oven temperatures or the like), are suspended, are dozed off or the like.
As discussing, communication network 180 provides the transmission medium for the communication between the system component.Communication network 180 is wired and/or WLAN (wireless local area network) (LAN).Therefore, communication network 180 comprises wired, wireless or two kinds of transmission mediums, comprise satellite, land (for example, optical fiber, copper, UTP, STP, coaxial, hybrid fiber coax (HFC) or the like), radio, microwave, free space optical (free-space optics) and/or any other form or the method that send.
Use wired transmission medium in one embodiment, communication network 180 is ethernet networks, and the CAT-5 cable is arranged, or homologue, is coupled to server 122, and is distributed to the position in each room.In one embodiment, be each system component distribution cable, for example televisor 104, media player 116 etc.System component comprises audio/video (AV) connector, and its response receives cable.In one embodiment, communication network 180 comprises telephone wire and/or power lead (for example, the communication technology makes to be available from home telephone network alliance (HomePNA) or homologue).
Use the wireless transmission medium in one embodiment, communication network 180 is supported ieee standard 802.11 (a), and it is large-scale video specific radio Ethernet protocol.In another wireless embodiment, communication network 180 is supported ieee standard 802.11 (b), and it is small-scale video specific radio Ethernet protocol.In another wireless embodiment, communication network 180 is supported ieee standard 802.11 (g).In another embodiment, BLUETOOTH
TMWireless technology (by Bluetooth SIG company exploitation) is used to support the short-range wireless interface with system 100.
As shown in fig. 1, communication network 180 comprises wireless network access point 182, for example those can from Linksys group company (Irvine, CA) or cisco systems company (San Jose CA) obtains, as a platform of system component.WAP 182 provides central point for the connectedness in the wireless network, and always must be in the state of connection with the tracker assembly.In addition, WAP 182 can provide the tie point between wired and the wireless network.Use server 122 in one embodiment, as mentioned above, WAP 182 is as a platform of server 122.In the alternative embodiment of the present invention based on server, server 122 in fact can be positioned except WAP (for example, WAP 182 shown in 180) Wai many distinct device platforms, comprise that bridge device (for example, bridge 130 (a)-130 (e)), personal digital assistant (for example, 108), personal computer (for example, 106) etc.
System 100 also comprises a plurality of infrared/serial bridge 130 (a)-130 (d), and it observes IEEE 802.11 (b) standard of radio communication.Each infrared/serial bridge 130 and one or more component interaction effects.As shown, infrared/serial bridge 130 (a) and televisor 104 (a), cable box 118 and media player 116 reciprocations.Infrared/serial bridge 130 (b) and tuner 114 or depend on the equipment reciprocation of any proprietary type of infrared/serial communication protocols are tangible for the those of skill in the art of correlative technology field.Infrared/serial bridge 130 (c) interacts with self-operated thermostatic controller 112.Infrared/serial bridge 130 (d) and light fixture 110 reciprocations.Wireless ethernet bridge 130 (e) and televisor 104 (b) and DSS box 120 reciprocations.Wireless ethernet bridge 130 (e) can be supported the addressable equipment of any IP.Like this, televisor 104 (b) and DSS box 120 are " next generation " UPnP equipment, possess the IP address.
Therefore, the present invention can integrated legacy equipment (for example depending on user's electronic (CE) equipment of infrared/serial communication protocols) and UPNP
TMEquipment and by the application of universal plug and play (UPnP) forum definition as system component.Controlled environment realizes that the example of IEEE 802.11 (b) infrared/serial bridge is " Legacy Device Bridge forResidential or Non-Residential Networks " (Application No. 10/387,590 at title; Application on March 14th, 2003) describes in, be equal at this and fully illustrate so that it is all merged reference.
As mentioned above, portable controller 108 (for example, personal digital assistant, wireless notebook computer or the like) makes user's remotely changing from the miscellaneous equipment of any position in the controlled environment and/or the configuration and the performance of application.In one embodiment, portable controller 108 is the hand-held platforms with graphic alphanumeric display, this graphic alphanumeric display has to the wireless connectivity of central server 122, described central server 122 can pass through cordless communication network 180 (for example, by ieee standard 802.11b regulation) and be controlled at miscellaneous equipment and/or application in the controlled environment.In another embodiment, server 122 is configured in the portable controller 108.In another embodiment, portable controller 108 passes through infrared (IR) coded signal direct and miscellaneous equipment and/or application communication.
In one embodiment, the invention enables and (for example comprise an output system assembly, televisor, monitor, loudspeaker, or the like) have a plurality of input system assemblies (for example, DVD, VCR, satellite tuner, digital VTR, stereo, or the like) system's control become easy.According to the present invention, the user at first selects output precision by the GUI that presents on the portable controller 108.At this moment presenting to control flow of user uses " (tabbed) of mark " interface to select the ability of specific input module so that the user to be provided.When selecting input, present the control flow of selected assembly.The example that is used for the user interface of related and control different system assembly is " User Interface for Multi-Device Control " (Application No. 60/516 at title, 302) describe in the application, be equal at this and fully illustrate so that it is all merged reference.
II. the position is familiar with
In an embodiment of the present invention, network control system 100 follows the tracks of and/or monitors the various system components position of (being called " target element " here) in real time or closely in real time.When the user when the host is mobile in the controlled environment of system 100, the present invention carries out some agreements makes system 100 determine the position of target elements and the user's who communicates by letter with target element position.In one embodiment, control center (for example, server 122, be coupled to the native processor of target element etc.) determine that target element is (for example, portable controller 108, or the like) current location, and send instruction reconfigure target element with the control appointment in the neighbourhood in other system component.For example, be positioned at the dining zone if determine portable controller 108, server 122 can be controlled portable controller 108 to be positioned at the system component in the zone of having meal.These assemblies can comprise light-regulator, audio system, food service device heating unit, or the like.
Use positioning unit 102 to be used for following the tracks of and/or the monitored object assembly in certain embodiments.With reference to figure 1 as mentioned above, one or more positioning units 102 are distributed in the host in whole controlled environments of system 100.Positioning unit 102 can be coupled to target element (for example, portable controller 108, audio client, phone, or the like) or be positioned independence (stand-alone) equipment in the controlled environment.
In one embodiment, positioning unit 102 is parts of RF communication system.Equally, RF answering machine and RF interrogator reciprocation are come communication position information.Answering machine is coupled to system component, and the identifying information of unique recognition system assembly can be used.Answering machine can make other type information use, if assembly is the equipment of fixing or seldom move, described type information comprises the distribution locations of system component.Therefore, answering machine can be coupled to target element or positioning component (for example, positioning unit 102).
Answering machine can be active or passive.Initiatively answering machine is launched the signal that comprises the identifying information continuous or cycle.Passive answering machine keeps inertia and/or noiseless up to being activated, for example, and interrogator or manually activated by the user.Therefore, system component (comprising answering machine) may operate in silent mode or activity pattern.At activity pattern, can be in real time or follow the tracks of closely in real time and/or the position of surveillance assembly (that is target element).At silent mode, when answering machine was activated, the current location of system component (that is target element) was only absolute definite known for system 100.
Interrogator is coupled to another system component, and when it enters in the communication range of answering machine receiving position information (for example, identifying information or the like).Interrogator perhaps will activate passive answering machine with receiving position information with the positional information of automatic reception from the activity answering machine.
Reciprocation between answering machine and the interrogator is " Method; System; andComputer Program Product for Managing Controlled Residential orNon-Residential Environments " (Application No. 10/382 at title, 897) and title is " Method; System; and Computer Program Produce forManaging Controlled Residential or Non-Residential Environments; " further illustrate in the application of (Application No. 10/180,500).As discussing, realize that according to the present invention different location technologies is used to follow the tracks of and/or the position of surveillance assembly, comprise, for example, RF communication, Bluetooth
TMWireless technology (by Bluetooth SIG, the Inc. exploitation), GPS receiver, cellular signal, triangulation, or the like.
In one embodiment, can not use positioning unit 102 to realize the location.Portable controller 108 or analog are responsible for receiving and handling the instruction of operating portable controller 108 from the user.To instruct and manually or by word of mouth import portable controller 108.Portable controller 108 processing instructions or send instruction to server 122 are to determine the position.For example, specified location in user " living room ", portable controller 108 will be configured to control equipment and/or the application in the living room.
Yet, in another embodiment, voice and/or manual command can be input in positioning unit 102 or the analog.The user also import a target element () identifier for example, portable controller 108, positioning unit 102 will transmit control signal to server 122, or the like, to upgrade the location records of target element.
As mentioned above, the present invention supports the different agreement of assembling position information.The invention provides some and be used to handle positional information with the position of the various assemblies of tracking and/or surveillance 100 or mobile method and/or technology.With reference to figure 2, flow process Figure 200 represents the general operation flow process of embodiments of the invention.More specifically, flow process Figure 200 shows in controlled environment and to follow the tracks of and/or the example of the control flow of surveillance assembly.
With reference to figure 2, the control flow of flow process Figure 200 forwards step 203 to immediately from step 201.In step 203, the suitable component accesses of system 100 is corresponding to the identifying information or the position code of the system component (that is target element) of tracked and/or supervision.With reference to returning Fig. 1, the present invention can determine the current location of any said system assembly, include but not limited to positioning unit 102, televisor 104, computer client 106, portable controller 108, light units 110, tuner 114, media player 116, cable box 118, DSS set top box 120, server 122, phone, security camera, safety monitor, audio client and/or miscellaneous equipment and/or application.In addition, as mentioned above, the present invention includes the different embodiment that are used for the access location sign indicating number.Position code comprises and is used to send or the identifier of poll portable controller 110 or other system component.Position code also can comprise other identification code or the information of poll or transmitting system assembly.In one embodiment, other identifying information comprises the near zone identifier, or the like, the zone that is used for residential environment is (promptly, floor, room or the like), wherein portable controller 108, positioning unit 102 or other system component of transmission or poll are arranged in this environment.
In one embodiment, user and text or graphic interface reciprocation are with the current location of manual input target element.In another embodiment, the phonetic order interface makes the user import phonetic order to be used for target element.Like this, the oral reception and registration current location of user.
In another embodiment, target element and positioning unit 102 interact with the access location sign indicating number.For example, target element (for example, portable controller 108, or the like) can be coupled to interrogator, for the described interrogator poll of near zone identifier positioning unit 102.The near zone identifier comprises the position code of the current location of both system components.
According to another example, interrogator 406 can be integrated with positioning unit 102.Therefore, by interrogator poll target element (for example, portable controller 108, or the like).Therefore, interrogator receives the identifier of polled target element.By being interrogator associated identifiers and near zone identifier generation position code.
In step 206, for further localization process sends to Direction Center with position code.In one embodiment, Direction Center is a server 122.In another embodiment, Direction Center is target element (for example, portable controller 108, computer client 106, or the like).
In step 209, a described position code and a zone coupling.The zone can be floor, entrance hall, corridor, balcony, room of appointment etc.The zone can be the place of appointment in floor, entrance hall, corridor, balcony, the room etc.The zone also can be the interior appointed area of outer periphery of inhabitation host system 100, or the ground adjacency of dwelling house or free-standing shelter.
In step 212, current region is communicated by letter with target element and/or is stored in and is used for calling in the future in the record of server 122.Be positioned and after its position data is updated at system component, as in step 295 indication, control flow finishes.
In one embodiment, locating information makes the system 100 can be based on instructing with the 100 interactive users' of system current location and/or controlling the system component of appointment.These can be described with reference to figure 3.Process flow diagram 300 has been described the general operation flow process of the embodiment of the invention as shown in Figure 3.More specifically, process flow diagram 300 shows that current location based on the user is used to instruct and/or the example of the control flow of Control System Component.
With reference to figure 3, the control flow of control flow chart 300 forwards step 203-209 to immediately from step 301.Describe at step 203-209 with reference to figure 2, position code makes system 100 can determine current location or zone with the interactive user of target element (for example, portable controller 108).
In step 312, be this zone access region configuration file.The area configurations file comprises and receiving in the zone from the equipment of the instruction of server 122 and/or portable controller 108 and/or control and or the tabulation of using (that is system component).
In step 315, handle this area configurations file to provide the control option for customer inspection.The control option comprises corresponding to the equipment of area configurations file and/or the tabulation of application.As described, can determine or determine the position in that target element (for example, portable controller 108) is local in that server 122 is long-range with reference to figure 2.If long-range definite, then server 122 for example produces and sends user interface to go up demonstration control option at target element (for example, other system component of portable controller 108 or user operation).If local definite, target element (for example, portable controller 108, or the like) the area configurations file obtained to produce user interface.The area configurations file can be sent to target element as required, or use available area configurations file to periodically update target element.
In step 318, user's Action Target assembly (for example, portable controller 108, or the like) send and ask to be controlled at the system component (for example, televisor 104, light units 110 or the like) that identifies in the area configurations file.The user can send function and/or the operation of request with Control System Component.The user can send request to change the configuration or the secure configuration file of assembly.For the those of skill in the art of correlative technology field, it is obvious can sending other control request.
In step 321, carry out control request by the assembly of appointment.Control request can directly send to the assembly of appointment, or is delivered to the assembly of appointment indirectly by server 122.After control request was carried out, as being indicated by step 395, control flow finished.
For example, if the user is operating portable controller 108 and determining to be positioned at " living room " by system 100, portable controller 108 is used to reception to be controlled at the user interface of the system component in the living room.A system component can comprise, for example, receives the safety monitor from the video of the security camera that is positioned at the Qianmen, dwelling.The user can with portable controller 108 reciprocations with pan, inclination or focus on security camera, with the image of display station on safety monitor the visitor at Qianmen.Another system component can be a televisor 104, and portable controller 108 can receive the audio volume level of control televisor 104 or the user interface that channel is selected.The user also can change the setting of HVAC equipment (that is, self-operated thermostatic controller 112) with portable controller 108 reciprocations.
III. dispose portable controller to be used for individualized the use
The present invention makes the user can operate portable controller 108 with instruction and/or control other system component.In one embodiment, portable controller 108 only allows the user to control the interior system component of portable controller 108 near zones.In another embodiment, portable controller 108 provides the option of the system component that is controlled at other zone.
In an embodiment, the control of different system assembly is based upon the preset configuration file that the user sets up.Configuration file can be that all users are general and/or for specific user's customized configuration.If be specific user's configuration, the present invention utilizes different agreement identification or differentiates the specific user and be implemented as the configuration file that the specific user sets up.In one embodiment, input user name and/or password to system component (for example, portable controller 108 etc.).Password can be by expressions such as spoken command, text, object, pixels.In another embodiment, system component collection of biological statistics.For example, carry out retina, iris, face, palm, fingerprint and/or speech recognition technology etc., with identification and/or discriminating user.In another embodiment, read subscriber card by system component (for example, portable controller 108, or the like).Can use other User Recognition and/or authentication technique to be used for identification and/or to differentiate the user.The present invention allows the suitable change configuration file of user.Above-described identification and/or authentication technique forbid that other user changes or deletes this user profile after user profile is set up.
In an embodiment, to make the user can set up configuration file be system component storage " liking " setting in the present invention.For example, can be television program, audio/video disc, room temperature, the control of heating bathtub, alarm clock, lamp/light modulator setting, network address, news broadcast, channel for finance and economics etc., set up the setting of liking.
In an embodiment, the user can set up configuration file to create one " playlist ".For example, can prepare and/or store a series of video or audio record with for example, repeat playing on televisor 104 or the audio client.Can prepare and/or graphics image or photo sequence with for example, repeat playing on monitor or the computer client 106.Concerning the those of skill in the art of correlative technology field, the playlist that can create other form or medium according to embodiments of the invention is obvious.
In an embodiment, can create configuration file and think that system component sets up a security protocol.For example, create configuration file to hinder the appointed user capture of some content.For example, teenage user, the television channel of the visit appointment that is under an embargo, network address, zone (for example, the room of locking, drawer, proof box etc.) or the like.
In an embodiment, the present invention makes unique user can set up a plurality of configuration files.In a plurality of configuration files each can be adapted to context-sensitive activity.For example, the user can create the configuration file that is used for the amusement at night, includes but not limited to, presets light, audio/video projection, secure access warning, the control of heating bathtub etc.Can create another configuration file and be used for the work-at-home activity, include but not limited to, preset baby monitor, classic disc playlist, the control of coffee machine timer, or the like.Can create the configuration file that is used for the activity in morning, include but not limited to, preset the alarm clock/control of dozing off, the control of coffee machine timer, illumination, news broadcast etc.
The user also can create a plurality of configuration files for and other individual consumer use, for example, when in pupillary company, the user can have a configuration file that possesses the security control setting hindering some TV programme, network address, audio record, or the like.But when in adult company, the user can recover another configuration file that how free security set is arranged.
Like this, the present invention makes different system component (for example, portable controller 108 etc.) except understanding the position or understand the user's.Therefore for example, portable controller 108 can be by each user based on above-mentioned user profile customization.In an embodiment, the function permission system 100 of understanding the user carries out the control of " follow-me " systems.For example, realize that " follow-me " video is delivered to the different displays that spread all over controlled environment with the video product that will select.For example, the user can operate portable controller 108 and select video product (for example, televisor demonstration, DVD disc etc.).Video product can present on portable controller 108 (for example, the media reader of describing with reference to figure 7 710).When the user moved from the room to the room in controlled environment, system 100 followed the tracks of portable controller 108 and receives each regional area configurations file.Therefore, when the user enters new zone or room, the monitor or television machine 104 that is arranged in the room will begin to show the video product of portable controller 108 selections automatically.
Same, the present invention can realize " follow-me " audio frequency.Same, for example, the user can operate portable controller 108 to select audio product (for example, CD disc, radio broadcasting etc.).When the user moved from the room to the room, location technology of the present invention made system 100 audio product can be delivered to audio client, the monitor that is positioned at portable controller 108 near zones, or the like.
" Follow-me " illumination is other embodiment of the present invention.When the user carries that portable controller 108 enters or when withdrawing from a room, system 100 is provided with based on configuration file and sends instruction and dim or opening/closing lamp (for example, light fixture 110).
In one embodiment, set up one or more controls grand operation and/or function with Control System Component.Control the grand one group of instruction that comprises, when carrying out, make server 122 can control a plurality of operations and/or the function of one or more system components.Control that grand (that is instruction set) is related with control macro document name to be used for calling and carrying out in the future.
It is grand that the user can define a control by operation portable controller 108, computer client 106 or the user interface of communicating by letter with server 122.In one embodiment, can realize graphical user interface so that the user can to define a new control grand.Fig. 4 provides according to grand example of control of embodiments of the invention definition.It is grand in to watch the control flow example of the film that is recorded on the DVD that process flow diagram 400 shows control of definition.
With reference to figure 4, when user's trigger recording macro instruction was distinguished grand logging mode to operate from conventional system, the control flow of process flow diagram 400 was from step 401.In step 403, the user (for example operates the said equipment, portable controller 108, computer client 106 or with the user interface of server 122) in one to select one to comprise the room that the user wants to make the system component (for example, televisor 104, monitor etc.) that is used for watching film.
In step 406, call the area configurations file that is used for selected room.As mentioned above, the area configurations file identification is positioned at all system components of appointed area.In one embodiment, the area configurations file storage is in server 122, and it gives for change and make suitable area configurations file to use for the user.
In step 409, customer inspection area configurations file is also selected a copic viewing system assembly (for example, televisor 104).The user also specifies the video input in DVD source (for example, media player 116).The user can specify any desired setting, includes but not limited to, and contrast, brightness, or the like.
In step 412, the user specifies the audio setting of expectation.In one embodiment, the user is that copic viewing system assembly (for example, televisor 104) is provided with audio volume level.In another embodiment, the user selects extra external loudspeaker or other audio client, or is used to replace the internal loudspeaker of described copic viewing system assembly (for example, televisor 104).
In step 415, the user goes up the DVD film of selecting expectation from DVD player (that is, media player 116).Interchangeable, if the copic viewing system assembly of DVD player and selection (for example, televisor 104) be positioned at same room, the user can order media player 116 to begin to play the film of current download so, or just opens media bay and wait for that the user manually inserts the DVD of expectation.
In step 418, the user specifies in the setting of the light fixture 110 that the area configurations document shows.The user can dim the level of comfort that light expires and hopes.In one embodiment, light fixture 110 comprises available from Lutron Electronics Company, Inc (Coopersburg, dimout system of RadioRA family PA).Like this, the steering order that the present invention can creation operation RadioRA dimout system.With reference to returning Fig. 1, light fixture 110 is example illuminators, and it is controlled by the signal repeater 1202 of light regulating system, as Lutron ' s RadioRA or X-10 light regulating system.
In step 421, the steering order of carrying out televisor 104, audio client 118 (if selected), media player 116 and the standard of light fixture 110 is jointly grand related with a public control.
In step 424, it is grand that the user preserves control, and give its filename, as " watching film ".Use portable controller 108 to create grand " watching film " in one embodiment, the user can be with grand grand button or the icon that is associated with an appointment.Therefore, when user's activation " watching film " grand button, all instructions that are associated with the preassigned selection of carrying out the user are called and carry out, thereby televisor 104 prepares to play the film of expectation.After controlling grand establishment and preservation, prepare to activate, as indicating in step 495, control flow finishes.
In one embodiment, with the grand related instruction storage of the control of appointment in server 122 or be attached in the database or storehouse of server 122.Therefore, it is grand to use portable controller 108 to carry out control in one embodiment, portable controller 108 make the user can be with control the grand and grand button of control or icon be associated.When carrying out, control grand button and will generally instruct and send to server 122.The instruction set that general instruction is associated is obtained and be somebody's turn to do to server 122 successively, and instruction set is sent to suitable system component to be used for execution.In other words, the present invention makes a mobile device, and for example portable controller 108, single high level requests can be sent to the Direction Center of centralization, and for example server 122.Server 122 is explained single request and find the corresponding instruction sequence that need transmit on the communication network 180 that comprises wireless (or power lead) communication according to its environment (for example, user, position).
Interchangeable, according to embodiments of the invention, based on the particular device in room that is present in selection or the zone and/or use that can to create control automatically by server 122 grand, its serviced device 122 of room configuration file by storage know or when the room configuration file is created serviced device 122 detect in real time.For example, if server 122 detects the room, if there are a DVD player (that is, media player 116) and a televisor 104 in the living room, so Control Server will set up one automatically can be grand with above-mentioned grand comparison basic " watching film ", it can be further by customization.
Fig. 5 has described according to embodiments of the invention and has activated the grand example of control.Process flow diagram 500 shows the grand control flow of control of activation process Figure 40 0, and it is relevant to watches the film that is recorded on the DVD.
With reference to figure 5, the control flow of process flow diagram 500 is from step 501, and forwards step 503 immediately to.In step 503, the user activates in " watching film " control of step 401-495 definition grand.
In step 506, be called from its memory location with the grand related instruction set of " watching film " control.Instruction set comprises the function of the predefined system component that is used to control appointment of user and/or the standard of operation.In this example, comprise change light fixture 110 with the grand related instruction set of " watching film " control, activate the instruction of media player 116 and activation televisor 104.If user expectation is listened film at family's stereophonic loud-speaker system, instruction set also will comprise the instruction that activates suitable audio system components so.
It is grand to use portable controller 108 to activate control in one embodiment, and portable controller 108 sends and the grand related general instruction of " watching film " control.To generally instruct to send to server 122, it calls the described general instruction related instruction set grand with " watching film " control.
In step 509, from instruction set identification room and system component (for example, televisor 104 or media player 116, light units 110, audio client).In the example of describing with reference to figure 4, designated room in control is grand.Yet in another embodiment, controlling grandly itself does not need designated room.As mentioned above, the present invention includes the method and/or the technology of the position of following the tracks of user or portable controller 108.Therefore, the user can requesting activation control grand (control is grand for example, " to watch film ") to watch film in any room of user's present located.Like this, the current position of server 122 designated users is to be used to carry out the grand room of control.Same, server 122 can be fetched the room configuration file of user's current location and the assembly of watching, media player and the light fixture that identification is arranged in designated room.
In step 512, be each system component Authentication devices access permission of sign in step 509.As mentioned above, carry out by server 122 that security protocols are set up and administration to the restriction of operation different system assembly.Accordingly, the invention provides identification or differentiate the method and/or the technology of asking the grand user of " watching film " control, be used for also determining whether the user is authorized to operate the system component (comprising real DVD) of the grand appointment of control.Lack the mandate of the system component of visiting appointment if determine the user, send a piece of news so and hindered with the notice user capture.
In step 515, the present invention determines which bar instruction is related with each system component of identification in the step 509.For example, specifying the steering order of viewer setting is televisor 104 queuings.Same, the steering order of specifying illumination to be provided with is light fixture 110 queuings.
In one embodiment, server 122 distributes the specific components instruction for each system component.Specific components instruction is by the appropriate protocol coding and send to the system component of appointment.Server 122 also upgrades the record of each system component state of tracking.
In step 518, each system component receives and carries out the specific components instruction.Like this, the light in the designated room (that is, light fixture 110) dims automatically, and the televisor 104 of appointment is opened and according to pre-defined configuration, the similar activation of the DVD player of appointment (that is, media player 116).According to the loudspeaker option of the grand middle appointment of control, activate the audio-frequency assembly of sign and wait for the audio feed of reception from DVD player.
In step 521, the user interface that control flow is sent to user's operation is grand to activate control.If use portable controller 108, on display, present control flow and prepare to begin to play (or DVD player prepare to receive the film of expectation, if select this option) with grand correct execution of specified control and DVD film.Then, as indicating in step 595, control flow finishes.
As mentioned above, when the user pressed specific key on portable controller 108, wherein this key was assigned execution basic " watching film " grand by the user, and portable controller 108 sends to central site network server 122 with request.Central server 122 has network connectivty to different CE equipment successively by 802.11/IR bridge 130.Therefore, when " watching film " request from portable controller 108 receives, server 122 sends a string command signal makes many functions that the user can watch DVD (for example with execution, televisor 104 or the monitor turning on media player 116 and be associated, and instruction media player 116 beginning DVD playing back).
The invention is not restricted to hardkey realizes.In one embodiment, portable controller 108 is PDA of a band screen, and it serves as the wave point of central site network server 122.In this embodiment, when " soft " on the GUI of portable controller 108 " watches film " grand button or icon activated by the user, " watching film " grand request of user is sent to server 122, server 122 sends to suitable instruction televisor 104 and media player 116 successively, and all these two equipment all have the network connectivty with server 122.Advantage of the present invention is that the user need be in the direct sight line of opertaing device, and this is the requirement of conventional I R remote control unit.
According to embodiments of the invention, by the activation of hard on portable controller 108 or soft key, the user must physically begin to control grand operation.In other embodiments of the invention, have only seldom even do not have user's interference, it is grand automatically to carry out control.Control and grandly be activated by a string instruction manipulation, these operations (i) can be defined as when specific time and/or particular event take place and automatically perform; Or (ii) in context, specialize for using automatically.
A. time-based execution
In one embodiment of the invention, when the time of presetting (that is, based on clock) and/or date (that is, based on calendar), (that is, not having the end user to interfere) took place automatically, carry out predefined steering order sequence.For example, the user can have a televisor 104 and a satellite TV set tuner 114 in his or her room.Perhaps, the user expects the part of specific channel as his or her " waking " routine opened and be transferred to bedroom televisor 104 6: 30 in the morning automatically.This can realize by control according to the invention is grand.
Bedroom televisor 104 is connected with central server 122 by wireless network 180 with lamp 110, and the central server 122 of can programming 6: 30 is turned on the light 110 and the televisor 104 in user bedroom in the morning, and regulates the channel of satellite TV set tuner 114 to expectation.As mentioned above, the user is grand by the GUI configuration control that central server 122 produces, and is presented on the screen of portable controller 108.Central server 122 can be based on the equipment of PC, and as shown in Figure 1, itself and portable controller 108 are physical separation, and perhaps central server 122 can reside in the portable controller 108.
In one embodiment, there is not server 122, portable controller 108 moves independently, the internal clocking of portable controller 108 6: 30 automatic start-up control in the morning is grand, so portable controller 108 is with suitable instruction or (for example directly be published to corresponding Control Component, televisor 104), or by Network Access Point 182 and/or bridge 130 be published to Control Component indirectly.Therefore, it is grand that the user uses the GUI configuration control of portable controller 108 generations.
Interchangeable, grand can being configured to of " waking " control only carried out in some day.For example, perhaps the user only thinks the grand execution on weekdays of " waking " control.Thereby can programme central server 122 or portable controller 108 of user is grand only to carry out " waking " control on weekdays.
Figure 10 has illustrated according to embodiments of the invention and has disposed the grand user interface of time-based control 1000.User interface 1000 comprises configuration control domain 1002, title-domain 1004, and time domain 1006 is reappeared territory 1008, retransmits field of definition 1010, controlled activation domain 1012 and can accept driver 1014.
The grand configuration level of time-based control is set up in 1002 indications of configuration control domain.As dispose as shown in the control domain 1002, grand predetermined the occurring in the bedroom of controlled environment of " waking " control, controlled environment is a dwelling house control system 100 for example.
Title-domain 1004 allows the grand title of user personalization control.In this example, grand being designated as of control " waken ".
Time domain 1006 allows the user to specify and carries out the grand time of control.Whether reappear territory 1008 appointments repeats to control grand (that is reproduction incident) or once (that is non-reproduction incident) only takes place.Reappear the input in territory 1008 and determine to reappear the available selection of field of definition 1010.Specified the reproduction incident if reappear territory 1008, reappeared territory 1010 and allow the user to specify recurrent frequency.For example, can predetermined control grand in every day, two weeks, weekly, the bimester, every month or every year etc. repeat on the basis.Can predetermined control grand only in holiday, birthday or the anniversary of weekend, working day, even number sky or appointment, or the like carry out.In one embodiment, the territory that comprises can be specified the user and is carried out the grand specific initial and/or date of expiry of control.
Controlled activation domain 1012 permission User Recognition will event when the grand execution of control.For example, the user can ask televisor 104 to open and be transferred to the channel of appointment (being shown " watching cable TV " in Figure 10), request televisor 104 and DVD player are (for example, media player 116) opens film (in Figure 10, being shown " watching DVD ") to watch appointment, specified frequency channel (being shown " listening satellite broadcasting " in Figure 10) is opened and be transferred to the request stereophonic sound system, request lamp 110 is opened, and alarm is waken in request, or the like.
The option in each territory (for example, time domain 1006, reappear field of definition 1010, controlled activation domain 1012, or the like) can be pre-defined and be presented in the drop-down menu, and perhaps the user can operation input apparatus manually imports the parameter of expectation.
Can accept driver 1014 and allow the user finally to determine option, and the control of order central server 122 receptions definition recently is grand.In case finish fully in the territory in the user interface 1000, the user can operation input apparatus (for example, mouse, stylus, finger, or the like) touch and can accept driver 1014, if input by central server 122 is handled from user interface 1000 suitable, will present next user interface.
As shown in Figure 10, in controlled activation domain 1012, select " watching CATV (cable television) " activity as expectation.Therefore, the user need specify main and subsystem assembly for the activity of carry out desired.Figure 11 has illustrated according to the controlled system component of embodiments of the invention configuration and has carried out the grand user interface of time-based control 1100.As dispose shown in the control domain 1002, it is grand that televisor 104 is configured to carry out " waking " control in the bedroom of controlled environment (for example, the dwelling house control system 100).
User interface 1100 comprises input domain 1104, audio domain 1103 and title field 1108.Input domain 1104 allows the user to specify the input source of scheduled television machine incident.As shown, the user is from cable source (for example, cable box 118) request input.Other option comprises the satellite feed from DSS box 120, come self-tuner 114 or be coupled to the air broadcast of the antenna of televisor 104, from media player 116 (for example, PVR, video recorder, DVD, or the like) medium, or the like.
Audio domain 1106 allows the user to specify audio grade.Audio grade can be noiseless or predetermined decibel grade.
Title field 1108 allows the user to ask text or title option.When finished fully in the territory in the user interface 1100, the user can operation input apparatus (for example, mouse, stylus, finger, or the like) touch and can accept driver 1014, if input by central server 122 is handled from user interface 1100 suitable, will present next user interface.
As shown in figure 11, select " cable " input source as the expectation of televisor 104.Therefore, the user need dispose the subsystem assembly to provide input to main system component televisor 104, in this example, will specify cable channel for the activity of carry out desired.Figure 12 has illustrated according to embodiments of the invention and has been used to dispose attached controllable system assembly to carry out the grand user interface of time-based control 1200.As dispose shown in the control domain 1002, it is grand that cable box 118 is configured to carry out " waking " control in the bedroom of controlled environment (for example, the dwelling house control system 100).
B. state or based on the execution of incident
In one embodiment of the invention, when particular event generation or particular system or component states generation, begin predefined steering order sequence.For example, when detecting system component (for example, CE equipment) and be in particular state (for example, the televisor 104 in family room has been opened), control grand can automatically performing.As at title being " Legacy Device Bridgefor Residential or Non-Residential Networks " (Application No. 10/387,590, described in pending application application application in March 14 in 2003), at this it is all merged as reference, can determine the on off state of CE equipment by the use of state detector.This state detector can be simple as light-sensitive detector, and the screen of its aiming televisor 104 is perhaps as basic ON/OFF instrument function.When light-sensitive detector perceives from the emission of the light of televisor 104 screens (or, interchangeable, the LED power indicator of televisor 104 is a green glow from red stain), detector passes to central server 122 with message, and it determines that televisor 104 is in " opening " state.
In case server detects or determines that the televisor 104 of family room is in " opening " state, server sends suitable definition automatically and expects that the grand instruction sequence of control arrives system component separately.For example, it is grand that server 122 is programmed to carry out " watching the DVD film ", in case it comprises that dimming family room light and televisor 104 opens and just activate DVD/ media player 116.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a specific generation that detects incident (with opposite states) can be served as for inspiring grand the automatically performing of programming in advance.For example, whether window (or door) can be loaded onto the electronics/magnetic/light sensor that is connected to central server 122 and be opened with announcement server 122 windows.According to the detection of opened kitchen window, it is grand that server 122 automatically performs " safety " control, turns on the lamp 110 in the kitchen and/or activate safety alarm (that is, lamp 110 and safety alarm have to the network connectivty of central server 122).Perhaps for example, response activates doorbell (doorbell has to the connectedness of central server 122), and server 122 can be carried out the grand lamp of turning on the outside of control.
Control of the present invention grand also can responsive state, incident and the combination of time and be triggered.For example, above-described " safety " grand only after at 10 in (that is, the date) afternoon weekend (that is time) open kitchen window (that is state) time and be triggered.
Fig. 6 provides an example that control is grand of definition, and it is activated according to " beginning " parameter, for example predefined time, date, state, incident, or the like.With reference to figure 6, when user's trigger recording macro instruction, the control flow of process flow diagram 600 is from step 601.
In step 603, the user operate the said equipment (that is, and portable controller 108, computer client 106, to the user interface of server 122, or other) in one to set up the grand setting of discerning and specifying one or more system components of control.For example, with reference to the step 403-418 of figure 4, the user can dispose some audio-video devices and watch film as mentioned above.As the another one example, as mentioned above the user can to dispose bedroom lamp 110, televisor 104 and tuner 114 grand to create " waking " control.The user's operation that also can dispose warning system, lamp 110, security camera and monitor is grand with definition " safety " control as mentioned above.Above-mentioned example is not completely.Can dispose the combination of other system component type and system component, and the same as in this discussion grand related with control.
As mentioned above, in one embodiment, it is grand that server 122 can be created control automatically.Like this, in step 603, (or detect by the existing of system component suitable in room that detect to select or the zone from the room configuration file of storage, maybe when creating the room configuration file, detect in real time), it is grand that server 122 can be set up control, for example, watches DVD.
In step 606, the user specifies a beginning parameter, when activating, makes the grand execution of the control of appointment in the step 603 automatically.As mentioned above, the beginning parameter can be predefined time, date, state, incident, or other.The beginning parameter also can be the combination of beginning parameter.
In step 609, execution is jointly grand related with control from the steering order of the standard of step 603-606.In step 612, give the grand filename of control and be saved in the memory location.In the embodiment that uses portable controller 108 and central server 122, control grand being stored in the portable controller 108, the steering order that is associated is stored in the central server 122.In another embodiment, control is grand is stored in the server 122 with steering order that be associated.In an embodiment who does not utilize central server 122 (as mentioned above), the grand and steering order that be associated of all controls all is stored in the portable controller 108.
Afterwards, it is grand to have created and preserved control, controls grand preparation and activate when the beginning parameter takes place, and as in step 695 indication, control flow finishes.
Fig. 7 has illustrated to activate according to embodiments of the invention and has automatically performed the grand example of control.Process flow diagram 700 shows the grand control flow of control of activation process Figure 60 0.
With reference to figure 7, the control flow of process flow diagram 700 forwards step 703 to immediately from step 701.In step 703, detect the generation of beginning parameter by portable controller 108, server 122 or some other system components of communicating by letter with portable controller 108 or server 122.According to the detection of the generation that begins parameter, in step 706, it is grand to visit and activate related with the generation of beginning parameter control.
For example, the beginning parameter can be predefined date and component states.In other words, it is grand in activating the lamp in room that the user can set up control, if televisors 104 are opened after at 8 in afternoon of January.Therefore the beginning parameter, can be the combination of date and time (that is, after at 8 in 1-31 afternoon day January) and component states (that is, televisor is opened).Like this, if someone has turned on televisor later at 8 in the afternoon of January, at this moment in step 703, state detector will signal to central server 122 as previously mentioned.Thereafter, in step 706, sending controling instruction is to activate compartment lamp.
In one embodiment, as described in preceding step 512, before activating steering order, set up and the checking user role.In other embodiments, as described in preceding step 509-521, identification and instruction specific region and/or controllable system assembly.
When predefined beginning parameter takes place, control after grand the automatically performing, as indicating in step 795, control flow finishes.
C. based on contextual grand
(with reference to the step 509 of figure 5) as mentioned above controls the grand room appointment that needs not be.In fact, according to embodiments of the invention, can specialize automatically in the general control grand (it is grand for example, " to turn on televisor ") that specific context (for example, special room) uses.Unlike by fixing, the defined control of predetermined instruction sequence is grand, the control of " based on context " of the present invention is grand to be dynamic sensuously, potential instruction is different, and produces automatically for each context of its application.
As mentioned above, can set up and use " watching the DVD film " grand to control a group system assembly.Therefore, be the family room recreation center (for example, can comprise SONY televisor and PHILIPS DVD player) specifically establishment " watching the DVD film " is grand, can not in the bedroom that comprises different system component groups (for example, RCA televisor and SAMSUNG DVD player), use.Even the user has " general " remote control capability of all televisors and DVD player in the control man, user's particular system components group programming in each room different " watching DVD " of still having nothing for it but is grand.
The present invention includes and making the user is common application the programming general grand method and/or the technology with control CE equipment and other system component of (for example, system 100) in the user family.In one embodiment, described general when grand when activating, explain grand to be used for carrying out grand in the context that is included in the particular room system component by central server 122 (network connectivty being arranged) with CE equipment and other system component.For example, the user can programme, and generally " to watch DVD " grand (for example, turns on televisor 104 and DVD/ media player 116, and the DVD playing back film), this is grand can be used for whole house (for example, system 100), no matter whether the system component between the room changes.
As mentioned above, in order to allow the system component in portable controller those rooms of control 108, " location learning " agreement makes central server 122 and/or portable controller 108 can detect room, user place.About the present invention, when the user activates general " watching DVD " when grand his or in his the family room, central server 122 is explained generally grand in the context in the residing rooms of active user (for example, at family room).Thereby grand corresponding to general " watching DVD " of activating in family room, central server 122 will send suitable instruction (for example, turning on the SONY televisor machine and the PHILIPS DVD player of family room).Similarly, if the user his or to activate same general " watching DVD " grand his bedroom, central server 122 will detect activate generally grand in the bedroom, and will send RCA televisor and the SAMSUNG DVD player of suitable instruction in the user bedroom.So, it is grand that the user only need programme and keep one general " watching DVD ", and it can be used for the different system component groups that whole controlled environment is found.
Comprise based on contextual other grand example generally " turning on the light " grandly, in the context in its room that is activated, automatically perform.Thereby according to the present invention, grand if the user activates " turning on the light " in the kitchen, central server 122 will only be turned on the lamp in kitchen.Like this, the user do not need for each room programming in the house with to keep different " turning on the light " grand.
Fig. 8 provides according to embodiments of the invention and has been used to define based on the grand example of contextual control.With reference to figure 8, when user's trigger recording macro instruction, the control flow of process flow diagram 800 is from step 801.
In step 803, the user operates the said equipment (promptly, portable controller 108, computer client 106, with the user interface of server 122, or other) in one to set up the operation and/or the function of the one or more system components of the general grand control of control.But the user is the appointing system assembly specifically, but specifies the setting as a result of expectation.For example, with reference to the example of " the watching film " of describing among the figure 4, the user is with " type " of appointing system assembly, and described system component need produce result's (that is, watching the DVD record) of expectation, and is its configuration setting.
In one embodiment, present a screen to the user, it is the identified component type only, for example not with reference to the televisor 104 of particular television 104.User and screen be the setting to televisor 104 expectations to specify as above refer step 409 to discuss alternately, but particular device (for example SONY televisor in family's playroom) is not known in the acceptance of the bid of control screen.The user can finish similar component type screen to specify the expectation setting of the other system component type of exporting the expected result needs.With reference to returning Fig. 4, the other system component type can be audio client, DVD/ media player 116 and light fixture 110.Set up the setting of these system component types and do not need to identify specific components.According to the result of expectation, the combination that can dispose other system component type and system component, and with itself and grand being associated of general control described here.
In one embodiment, as above the user who discusses with reference to figure 6 can specify the beginning parameter, and as mentioned above, user's general control of can programming is grand in to automatically perform when one or more beginning parameters take place.
In step 806, execution is grand related with described general control from the steering order of the standard of step 803.In step 809, give general control a grand filename, and be kept at the memory location.In the embodiment of a use portable controller 108 and central server 122, generally control grand being stored in the portable controller 108, related steering order is stored in the central server 122.In another embodiment, generally controlling grand with related steering order is stored in the server 122.In one embodiment, do not utilize central server 122 (as discussed above), generally control grand with related steering order and all be stored in the portable controller 108.
Replacedly, when the user sets up the process input information and comes the internal relations of define system assembly by modular system/assembly, can impliedly be created based on contextual control is grand, described process for example is " User Interface for Multi-Device Control " (U.S. Provisional Application number 60/516 at title, 302) processing of describing in the application, this application are equal at this fully illustrates so that it is all merged reference.For example, user experience (for example see DVD, listen CD etc.) to each expection, the request user provides some information, comprise about which system component of this experience and need be activated, each activated system assembly is any setting, whether each system component has input (for example receiver, loudspeaker (amps), televisor machine 104), and what system component is connected to these inputs etc.From this information, generate the control set of scripts that is used for described specific user's experience.Be used for that experience by the instruction in the action triggers script on the user interface.The instruction specific to system component is called in instruction in the script successively on its system component that works, (grand activation will be called " opening " instruction of televisor machine 104 and DVD player (for example media player 116) for example " to watch DVD ").
Create described general control grand and preserve after, grand being ready to of this control is activated, and as in step 895 indication, end is flowed in control.
Fig. 9 shows according to the embodiment of the invention and activates based on the grand example of contextual control.Process flow diagram 900 illustrates the grand control stream of control of activation process Figure 80 0.
With reference to figure 9,, and forward step 903 immediately at the control stream of step 901 beginning process flow diagram 900.
In step 903, activate in the general control of step 801-895 definition grand.Can operating portable controller 108 by the user, to activate control grand, or the beginning parameter to activate control automatically when taking place grand, describe as Fig. 7.
With reference to returning Fig. 9,, call and the grand related instruction set of general control from its memory location in step 906.Instruction set comprises predesignated subscriber's standard, is used to control the function and/or the operation of the system component of particular type.In " watching film " example that Fig. 4 describes, generally control the related instruction set of macro instruction with " watching film " and comprise the instruction that changes light fixture 110, activation media player 116, activates televisor machine 104 and activation audio client, but particular system components does not identify in instruction.
In step 909, be described instruction set sign specific region and one or more system component (for example, televisor machine 104 or media player 116, light fixture 110, audio client etc.).As above with reference to the description of figure 4, when foundation control was grand, the user can the appointed area.Equally, as discussed above, existing invention comprises the method or the technology of the position of following the tracks of user or portable controller 108.Therefore, can the requesting activation general control of user is grand watches film with any zone in the controlled environment 100 that is currently located at the user.Equally, server 122 is controlled grand zone with the designated user current location as realization.Server 122 will be obtained the area configurations file of user's current location and the system component (for example media player 116, light fixture 110 etc.) that sign is positioned at the appointed area.In one embodiment, can set up user role and also verify user role for the system component of each sign.
In step 912, the present invention determines which instruction is relevant with the system component of sign in step 909.In step 915, the system component of each sign receives and carries out the instruction specific to assembly.Like this, with reference to the example of returning " watching film ", the illumination in the specific region (for example light fixture 110) deepening automatically, particular television 104 is opened and is pre-configured, and specific DVD player (being media player 116) is similarly activated.According to the loudspeaker option of appointment in control is grand, also activate the audio-frequency assembly of sign and also wait for to receive audio feed from DVD player.After execution is grand based on contextual control,, controls stream and finish as in step 995 indication.
IV. example system realizes
Fig. 1-the 12nd, the conceptual illustration that allows the present invention to explain.Should be appreciated that and to realize embodiments of the invention with hardware, firmware, software or their combination.In a such embodiment, can realize various assemblies and step with hardware, firmware and/or software, to carry out function of the present invention.Just, same hardware, firmware or software module can be carried out one or more pieces that illustrate (being assembly or step).
In addition, the present invention can realize in one or more computer systems or other disposal systems, can realize described here functionally, with reference to Figure 13, shows and is used to realize example computer system 1000 of the present invention.According to this exemplary computer system 1300 various embodiment are described.After reading this instructions, concerning the those of skill in the art of association area, how to use other computer systems and/or computer organization to realize that the present invention is tangible.
In interchangeable embodiment, supplementary storage 1310 comprises other similar installations, allows software and/or data load in computer system 1300.Such device comprises, for example, and removable memory module 1322 and interface 1320.The example of these devices comprises program cassette disk and cassette disk interface (such as what find) in video game device, removable storage chip (such as EPROM or PROM) and relevant socket, and other removable memory modules 1322 and allow software and data are delivered to from removable memory module 1322 interface 1320 of computer system 1300.
In the document, term " computer program media " and " computer-usable medium " are usually directed to the medium as removable memory module 1318, removable memory module 1322, the hard disk that is installed in hard drive 1312 and signal 1328.These computer programs are devices that software is provided to computer system 1300.The present invention points to such computer program in one embodiment.
Computer program (being also referred to as computer control logic or computer readable program code) is stored in primary memory 1308 and/or the supplementary storage 1310.Computer program also can receive by communication interface 1324.When carrying out such computer program, can make computer system 1300 realize the present invention described here.Especially, when computer program, make processor 1304 realize processing of the present invention, for example use the method for the other system assembly realization of portable controller 108, server 122 and/or said system 100, for example 200,300,400,500,600,700,800 and/or 900 method.Therefore, such computer program is represented the controller of computer system 1300.
Use software to realize the present invention in one embodiment, software can be stored in the computer program and use removable storing driver 1314, hard-drive 1312 or communication interface 1324 to be loaded in the computer system 1300.When carrying out steering logic (software), make processor 1304 carry out function of the present invention described here by processor 1304.
In another embodiment, the present invention mainly realizes in hardware, for example uses for example application-specific IC (ASIC) of nextport hardware component NextPort.The realization of carrying out the hardware state machine of function described here is tangible to the those of skill in the art of association area.
In another embodiment, the present invention uses the combination of hardware and software to realize.
Below described various embodiment of the present invention, should be appreciated that they present by the mode of example, but not as restriction.Do not deviating under the spirit and scope of the present invention concerning the those of skill in the art of association area, it is tangible carrying out various changes in form and details.In addition as previously discussed, be appreciated that method of the present invention, system and computer program are not restricted to residential environment.The present invention can realize in other environmental forms, and this environment has distributive medium and to a plurality of equipment and/or be dispersed in the central processing system that application in the appointed area sends instruction and/or control signal.Except the residence, the appointed area comprises, but is not restricted to, office's inner room, one group of small office, workshop, warehouse, public place of entertainment, health care facility, hotel, holiday resort, aircraft, ship, automobile etc.Therefore, the present invention is not restricted to any embodiment described above, but according to appended claims and equivalent definition thereof.
Claims (20)
1, a kind of in controlled environment the method for management system component, comprising:
Detect the generation of predetermined beginning parameter;
The instruction sequence specific to assembly of visit and described beginning parameter correlation;
Described sequence is sent to a plurality of system components; And
When the corresponding system assembly receives described instruction specific to assembly, carry out from each of described sequence specific to the instruction of assembly with the described corresponding system assembly of control from described a plurality of system components.
2, method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said detection comprises:
Detect date and/or time, described date and/or time are designated as described beginning parameter.
3, method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said detection comprises:
Detect the mode of operation of a system component from described a plurality of system components, wherein said mode of operation is designated as described beginning parameter.
4, method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:
Determine the zone in the controlled environment; And
Sign is included in the system component in the described zone, and wherein said a plurality of system components comprise the system component of described sign.
5, method as claimed in claim 4, wherein saidly determine to comprise:
Determine described zone from the current location of a system component of described a plurality of system components.
6, method as claimed in claim 4, wherein saidly determine to comprise:
Import definite described zone from the user, described zone is specified in described input.
7, method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:
The permission of each system component of access control before realizing described forwarding step.
8, method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said transmission comprises:
On wireless media, send described sequence.
9, a kind of in controlled environment the method for management system component, comprising:
Permission is controlled a plurality of system components specific to the foundation of the instruction sequence of assembly when it is carried out;
Described sequence is begun being associated of parameter with one;
Detect the described generation of described beginning parameter; And
When the corresponding system assembly receives described instruction specific to assembly, carry out each instruction, with the described corresponding system assembly of control from described a plurality of system components specific to assembly from described sequence.
10, method as claimed in claim 9, wherein said detection comprises:
Detect date and/or time, described date and/or time are designated as described beginning parameter.
11, method as claimed in claim 9, wherein said detection comprises:
Detect the mode of operation of a system component from described a plurality of system components, wherein said mode of operation is designated as described beginning parameter.
12, method as claimed in claim 9 further comprises:
Determine the zone in the controlled environment; And
Sign is included in the system component in the described zone, and wherein said a plurality of system components comprise the system component of described sign.
13, the mutual controller of a plurality of system components in a kind of and controlled environment,
Wherein said controller is operable as the instruction sequence specific to assembly of configuration and a storage and a predetermined beginning parameter correlation, and
Wherein said controller is operable as and will sends to one or more system components of described a plurality of system components from an instruction specific to assembly in the described sequence, controls the operation or the function of described assembly with the generation that responds described predetermined beginning parameter.
14, the system of a plurality of system components in a kind of managing controlled environment comprises:
Control center is used to control the operation and/or the function of described a plurality of system components; And
Controller, be used for described control center mutual,
Wherein said controller is operable as the instruction sequence specific to assembly of a configuration and a predetermined beginning parameter correlation, and
Wherein said control center is operable as the described instruction sequence specific to assembly of storage, and the generation that responds described predetermined beginning parameter sends described sequence to described a plurality of system components.
15, as the system of claim 14,
Described control center is operable as to the described instruction sequence specific to assembly of one or more transmissions of a plurality of system components that are arranged in described controller near zone, and described near zone is to be determined by the input that receives from described controller.
16, as the system of claim 14, further comprise:
Locating device is used to follow the tracks of and/or monitor the position of described controller or move,
Wherein said controller is operable as with described locating device mutual, and
Wherein said control center is operable as to the described instruction sequence specific to assembly of one or more transmissions of a plurality of system components that are arranged in described controller near zone, and described near zone is determined by described locating device.
17, a kind of computer program comprises the computing machine available media, and described medium has embedding computer-readable program code devices wherein, makes to comprise the component system that the computer management controlled environment is interior:
First computer-readable program code means detects the generation of a predetermined beginning parameter;
Second computer-readable program code means, the instruction sequence specific to assembly of visit and described beginning parameter correlation;
The 3rd computer-readable program code means, send described sequence to a plurality of system components, wherein when the corresponding system assembly receives described instruction specific to assembly, carry out from each of described sequence specific to the instruction of assembly to control the described corresponding system assembly in described a plurality of system component.
18, according to the computer program of claim 17, wherein said first computer-readable program code means comprises:
The 4th computer-readable program code means is used to detect date and/or time, and wherein said date and/or time are designated as described beginning parameter.
19, according to the computer program of claim 17, wherein said first computer-readable program code means comprises:
The 4th computer-readable program code means is used for from the mode of operation of a system component of described a plurality of system components detections, and wherein said mode of operation is designated as described beginning parameter.
20, according to the computer program of claim 17, further comprise:
The 4th computer-readable program code means is used for a zone of determining that controlled environment is interior; And
The 5th computer-readable program code means is used to identify the system component that is included in the described zone, and wherein said a plurality of system components comprise the system component of described sign.
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|---|---|---|---|
| US53322003P | 2003-12-31 | 2003-12-31 | |
| US60/533,220 | 2003-12-31 | ||
| US10/782,923 | 2004-02-23 |
Publications (2)
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| CN1926512A true CN1926512A (en) | 2007-03-07 |
| CN100394383C CN100394383C (en) | 2008-06-11 |
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| CNB2004800410621A Expired - Fee Related CN100394383C (en) | 2003-12-31 | 2004-12-13 | Method, system, and computer program product for automatically managing components within a controlled environment |
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| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (2) | JP4903054B2 (en) |
| CN (1) | CN100394383C (en) |
Cited By (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN102769710A (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2012-11-07 | 上海先甲新能源科技有限公司 | Automatic lamplight control identification method adopting cell phone to achieve identification |
| CN103412553A (en) * | 2013-08-29 | 2013-11-27 | 宇龙计算机通信科技(深圳)有限公司 | Intelligent adjusting and controlling method and system |
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| CN109565456A (en) * | 2016-08-19 | 2019-04-02 | Pcms控股公司 | The system and method for equipment standalone scenario are utilized in smart home environment |
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- 2004-12-13 JP JP2006547085A patent/JP4903054B2/en active Active
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2011
- 2011-09-13 JP JP2011199702A patent/JP5634964B2/en active Active
Cited By (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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| CN102769710A (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2012-11-07 | 上海先甲新能源科技有限公司 | Automatic lamplight control identification method adopting cell phone to achieve identification |
| CN102769710B (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2015-08-12 | 上海先甲新能源科技有限公司 | It is a kind of about mobile phone is as the authentication method of the automatic control lamp light of identification |
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| CN110083411B (en) * | 2013-06-08 | 2022-02-01 | 苹果公司 | Apparatus and method for generating user interface from template |
| CN103412553A (en) * | 2013-08-29 | 2013-11-27 | 宇龙计算机通信科技(深圳)有限公司 | Intelligent adjusting and controlling method and system |
| CN103412553B (en) * | 2013-08-29 | 2017-03-15 | 宇龙计算机通信科技(深圳)有限公司 | A kind of intelligent control method and system |
| CN104076798A (en) * | 2014-07-09 | 2014-10-01 | 苏州工业职业技术学院 | Internet-of-Things smart home control system based on Zigbee technology |
| CN109565456A (en) * | 2016-08-19 | 2019-04-02 | Pcms控股公司 | The system and method for equipment standalone scenario are utilized in smart home environment |
| CN109565456B (en) * | 2016-08-19 | 2022-02-08 | Pcms控股公司 | System and method for utilizing device independent scene in smart home environment |
| US11595225B2 (en) | 2016-08-19 | 2023-02-28 | Drnc Holdings, Inc. | System and method for utilization of device-independent scenes in a smart home environment |
| CN107864073A (en) * | 2017-12-13 | 2018-03-30 | 中国银行股份有限公司 | A kind of SWIFT messages Batch sending method and apparatus |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JP2012022706A (en) | 2012-02-02 |
| JP2007517313A (en) | 2007-06-28 |
| JP4903054B2 (en) | 2012-03-21 |
| CN100394383C (en) | 2008-06-11 |
| JP5634964B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 |
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